POTS of cash for pots of plants!

That is the arrival of a new environmental fund being spearheaded by a Pilsworth-based company and Greater Manchester's thriving Red Rose Forest.

And the initiative will allow Bury people to get cash grants of up to £5,000 to help them transform local areas of under-used land into fantastic environmental schemes.

The Viridor Community Fund has a unique approach to funding, providing help and advice from local mentors as well as funds to help guide the projects on their way.

Working alongside Viridor Waste Management and the Countryside Agency, Red Rose Forest is hoping the fund will inspire local communities to think green when it comes to their neighbourhood and give them the support, advice and money to create pockets of green in Bury.

As long as the projects enhance the local environment and are publicly accessible, such as butterfly gardens, community green spaces, wildlife areas or a waste land makeover, grants could be awarded. Viridor operates a successful landfill project in Pilsworth. The Viridor Community Fund is a Red Rose Forest Trust initiative with the Red Rose Forest Community Network, funded by Viridor Waste Management and the Countryside Agency.

The fund will be used to finance projects within the Red Rose Forest area, including Bury.

Red Rose Forest is Greater Manchester's community forest, one of 12 being developed across the country, all of which are committed to greening and regenerating the landscape.

Red Rose Forest is a partnership of the Countryside Agency, Forestry Commission and six Greater Manchester authorities, including Bury.

Any local group or individual wanting more information on the fund, or how to apply, should contact Sarah Hausaman-Roberts at Red Rose Forest on 872 1660.